General list of what to bring on your first fall or spring campout or trip to the cabin

You are encouraged not to rush out and buy new camping equipment for your first campouts.

Try to borrow what you need that you don't have; the Troop has some equipment to loan. Use your first campout to check out what the other kids are using. Please ask any of the Scoutmasters for advice.

• A backpack, if you have one that is sized right for you, or a big bookpack, or a sports bag. You should be able to carry your own stuff about .5 mile (or less) to our campsite.
• Scout uniforms are not required unless it is a Scouting Camporee/Jamboree.
• A 2-3 man tent, if you have one; otherwise let your Patrol Leader know if you need tent space
• Wear shoes appropriate for walking up and down the hilly trails.
• Bring lots of layers, if needed for the expected weather (sock liners, heavy socks, long underwear, sweatpants or fleece pants, fleece vest and/or sweater, outer jacket, ski cap and gloves, and, of course, appropriate footwear)
• A sleeping bag and pad, the latter if not headed to the cabin. (Bring an extra blanket, if you have a 2-3 season sleeping bag.)
• Small pillow (or use a stuff sack or pillowcase with your jacket inside).
• Mess kit and utensils. (cup, plate, bowl, fork, knife, spoon; metal or plastic)
• Jacket and other cold weather gear (knit cap and gloves) … a must from November-April.
• Raingear, if it is likely to rain.
• Extra sweatshirt and sweatpants (good to sleep in) and socks and shoes.
• Flashlight (don't bring big lanterns) with extra batteries.
• Small towel (or washcloth) and toiletries (toothbrush and paste).
• 2 30-gallon trash bags (in case "stuff" gets wet)
• 25' of nylon/polyester or cotton clothesline
• A book, cards and/or a small board game (optional).
• Medicines (currently being taken or required for an emergency). Please write, on an index, the the Scout's name and name of the medicine(s), dosage and frequency to be taken and give card to an adult leader.
• Fees for the trip, if not already paid and not using a troop bank account. Make checks payable to 182 B.S.A. (or cash).
• Permission slip, if not already turned in, or have parent sign one at the drop off.
• Look for additional, special requirements (such as a compass) on the flyer for the trip

Questions or Concerns: Call one of the Scoutmasters or your Patrol Leader.

Buying a Compass

You will need an orienteering compass for the orienteering events. A very good compass can be acquired for under $20 and an adequate one will cost about $12. Any compass that you buy must be an orienteering model (it has a clear plastic base with a directional arrow marked down the center). One with a lanyard or with a hole to connect a lanyard (or string or gimp) is most desirable. The dial should be easy to read. Rounded corners are easier on pockets. (Don't spend a lot on a first compass; they have a habit of getting lost.)

You can buy compasses at the following stores (and many more):

• Eastern Mountain Sports (Natick)
• Natick Outdoor Store
• REI (Framingham)
• Scout Shop (Framingham)

Troop 182 members gets a 10% discount on camping equipment (only camping equipment) at Natick Outdoor Store.

You must ask for it. Bring evidence of membership (card or flyer).

REI Club Day

REI has a "club day" in the spring and fall where members of any "club", including the Boy Scouts, gets a 20% discount on anything in the store.

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